Where Is It? Across the street from the beach. Just follow the surfers.

Why Should I Go? This place made a name for itself in the ’70s, when lifeguards, surfers, and beautiful beach bunnies gathered around the wood bar that was rumored to be the longest in all of Cape May (a statistic confirmed by the local Exit Zero magazine in a highly scientific investigation). Today, it’s still the favorite bar/restaurant of sandy beach-goers; it’s the only one in town to actually discourage shoes. This popularity is due, in part, to the Nail’s draft beer, which is the coldest in town, a fact once again confirmed by Exit Zero in a cold beer test.

Something you should probably test out for yourself is the restaurant’s firepit, the only of its kind in South Jersey. Employees have said when someone thinks to rest her beer on the edge of this pit, it’s a lot like the first girl to say yes to a dance — suddenly, everyone wants in.

For those who’d rather be inside, the live music is always pumping. If you’re looking for some kind of mind-numbingly loud electronic beat, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. This is the kind of mellow entertainment that makes for a mellow vibe — the kind you’ll want to leave only in order to check out the dolphins playing in the surf across the street.

Insider Tip: Yes, you can order a rusty nail here, but since some of the bartenders consider this drink something that, uh, a geezer would drink (no offense to geezers!) they punch it up by adding whipped cream and honey.

Menu Highlights

Beach Breakfast

A spectacular view of beautiful beaches, open-air setting, and a delicious variety — from cereal to omelets, the Nail has you covered.

Leisurely Lunch

Enjoy a freshly made tasty burger by the sea, or one of the Nail’s savory salads, which manage to be healthy AND satisfying, which is always a great combination.

Arctic Suds & Tasty Snacks

Grab a mug of the coldest beer in town (Exit Zero magazine actually proved this assertion with a scientific test) while munching on the best bar snacks, indoor or out — nachos, calamari and fresh shellfish.

Classic Seaside Cuisine

Great dinner choices from the sea, with some irresistible selections for meat-lovers as well.

Kid-Friendly Classics

From choice to price, you’ll be satisfied.

Follow Exit Zero on Facebook

Email Newsletter

Subscribe to our email newsletter for the latest and greatest from Cape May, NJ. We promise not to be annoying!